On this day today:
1942 - One of rock's greatest legends, Jimi Hendrix, was born as Johnny Allen Hendrix in Seattle, Washington. Later renamed James Marshall Hendrix, he grew up to redefine the electric guitar with his innovative techniques, soulful playing, and unforgettable stage presence. Hendrix's groundbreaking work, including hits like "Purple Haze" and "All Along the Watchtower," has influenced countless musicians and secured his legacy as one of the most iconic figures in music history. Despite his untimely death at 27, his artistry continues to inspire and resonate with fans worldwide.
1967 - The Beatles released Magical Mystery Tour in America, a soundtrack album accompanying their surreal television film of the same name. This release, packaged as a full LP in the US, combined the six songs from the UK double EP version with five singles, including "Penny Lane," "Strawberry Fields Forever," and "All You Need Is Love." The album showcases The Beatles' experimental era, blending psychedelia with whimsical storytelling. Despite the film's mixed reception, the album was a critical and commercial success, later becoming a part of The Beatles' official core discography worldwide.
1970 - George Harrison unveiled All Things Must Pass, his first solo album after The Beatles' breakup. A triple LP masterpiece, the album marked Harrison’s creative emancipation, showcasing his prolific songwriting that had been overshadowed during his time with the band. The album features spiritual themes and lush production by Phil Spector, with standout tracks like "What Is Life," "Isn't It a Pity," and the iconic "My Sweet Lord." The latter became a groundbreaking hit, earning Harrison the distinction of being the first ex-Beatle to top the charts in both the UK and US.
1982 - Lionel Richie proved he was more than capable of shining on his own, as his debut solo single, "Truly," climbed to the top of the Billboard Hot 100. Already a chart-topping powerhouse with the Commodores ("Three Times a Lady," "Still") and through his duet with Diana Ross ("Endless Love"), Richie’s first solo effort showed his signature blend of heartfelt lyrics and soulful melodies remained irresistible. "Truly" not only established Richie as a solo star but also earned him a Grammy for Best Male Pop Vocal Performance in 1983. This ballad paved the way for a string of solo hits that defined the '80s, including "Hello," "All Night Long (All Night)," and "Say You, Say Me."
1991 - A select group of close friends and family gathered in London to bid farewell to Freddie Mercury, the legendary Queen frontman who had passed away just days earlier from AIDS-related complications. The private funeral service was an intimate affair, attended by his Queen bandmates, Elton John, and his longtime companion Mary Austin, among others. In keeping with Mercury's Zoroastrian faith, the ceremony included traditional rites, but his larger-than-life legacy loomed over the somber proceedings. Honoring his final wishes, Mary Austin was entrusted with his ashes. True to her word, she has never revealed their resting place, respecting Mercury's desire for complete privacy even in death.
1999 - Influential indie rock pioneers Pavement officially disbanded during a bittersweet performance at London's Brixton Academy. Frontman Stephen Malkmus addressed the crowd, stating, "This is our last show," confirming the end of the band's decade-long run. Known for their lo-fi aesthetic, sardonic lyrics, and genre-defining albums like Slanted and Enchanted and Crooked Rain, Crooked Rain, Pavement left an indelible mark on the indie music landscape.
2017 - Country superstar Blake Shelton was crowned People magazine's "Sexiest Man Alive" in 2017, making him only the second musician to earn the title in the feature's 32-year history. The first? His fellow The Voice coach and Maroon 5 frontman Adam Levine, who snagged the honor in 2013. Known for his rugged charm, quick wit, and chart-topping country hits, Shelton took the title in stride. "Y'all must be running out of people," he joked during his acceptance. However, he credited his girlfriend, pop icon Gwen Stefani, for convincing him to embrace the accolade.
2021 - Taylor Swift made history when her 10-minute version of "All Too Well" debuted at #1 on the Billboard Hot 100 on November 27, 2021. Featured on Red (Taylor's Version), the track shattered the record for the longest song ever to top the chart, surpassing Don McLean's 1971 classic "American Pie," which clocked in at 8 minutes and 37 seconds.
